How Does A Fashion Editor Pack?

Very wisely! Learn packing tips from the Prima pro

How many times have you packed at the last minute, the night before your holiday? Sounds familiar doesn't it. Next time you jet off you can avoid the crazed tussle with your suitcase by following a simple tried-and-tested plan.

Prima's senior fashion editor, Amanda Marcantonio has more experience than most of packing a suitcase for all eventualities and has shared her fail-safe tips for perfect packing. 'Start by laying out your holiday wardrobe by outfit,' explains Amanda. 'Only take items that can be worn more than once and will mix and match with other things.' And if all else fails? 'Zip up your case, stand it upright on the floor, leave for a few minutes, then lay it back on the bed and open - things will have moved, leaving extra room for that fourth pair of shoes!'

How To Pack A Suitcase In 10 Steps

2. To keep your clothes smelling summer fresh, line your case with scented drawer liners; or, as I do, use a few tumble-dryer sheets.

3. Be clever with your bags – a smart iPad case can double up as an evening clutch and your carry-on handbag can become a beach bag. Put things like rolled-up T-shirts or jewellery inside the bags you pack.

4. When weight's limited, think masterful multi-taskers. My black swim tankini top doubles up as a cami under a black sheer top at night. A kaftan is a great beach cover-up, but have you tried wearing it to dinner over skinny jeans? I also wear a sarong as a scarf to keep chills at bay.

5. Follow my simple formula – pack three tops for every bottom. You'll have a wider variety of outfits to choose from if you pack more tops than bottoms, and no one is likely to notice if you wear the same pair of black trousers when teamed with different tops.

6. One of my best strategies for stress-free packing is to create a capsule holiday wardrobe in no more than four colours. It makes holiday styling so much simpler – whether you're in Cornwall or the Caribbean.

7. Stuff smaller items like socks or knickers into the cups of your bras so the bras hold their shape. Fill the gaps with swimwear and accessories.

8. Include a few accessories to transform outfits for different occasions. Your favourite cotton sundress can be a day-to-night delight when worn with different shoes and a statement necklace.

9. Think about your arrival time when packing. For evening, going-out clothes or your pyjamas and toothbrush should be on top. If it's morning, make sure it's your swimsuit, beach towel, flip-flops and suntan lotion.

10. Limit yourself to three pairs of shoes. Pick versatile footwear you can wear day or night – metallics and neutrals are your holiday heroes.